Cyberpsychology in the digital age: Addressing social media’s mental well-being effects through digital interventions

Abstract

Orientation: Rising social media use has intensified concerns about its psychological effects, especially among teenagers and young adults, with prior research linking engagement to anxiety, depression, and reduced emotional well-being. Research purpose: This study examined how digital mental well-being interventions can mitigate the negative psychological effects of social media use. Motivation for the study: While extensive literature documents the risks of social media, few studies synthesise solution-oriented digital interventions or examine their ethical implications. This study addressed that gap by integrating psychological theory with emerging digital practices. Research approach/design and method: A qualitative systematic literature review of secondary data was adopted. Twenty-eight peer-reviewed sources were systematically selected and thematically analysed, guided by social comparison theory, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and self-determination theory. Main findings: Social media distress was driven by social comparison, fear of missing out, and cyberpsychological pressures. CBT-based applications, mindfulness tools, and online support platforms showed potential to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms when appropriately designed. Practical/managerial implications: Ethically designed interventions that prioritise user autonomy, data privacy, and inclusivity are essential. Practitioners, designers, and policymakers should adopt psychologically informed approaches to support sustainable well-being. Contribution/value-add: This study contributed to cyberpsychology literature by synthesising evidence on the effectiveness and ethical challenges of digital mental well-being interventions, offering a theoretical foundation for future research and responsible innovation.